La Crosse Technology 513-149 Digital Atomic Wall Clock

Introduction

The Digital Atomic Wall Clock features radio-controlled time, date, indoor and outdoor temperature on an easy-to-read display. It receives its signal from the Atomic Clock in Colorado for accurate timekeeping.

Specifications & Dimensions

Digital Atomic Clock:
Dimensions: 11" W x 1.1" D x 8.54” H (280 x 28 x 217 mm)
Power: 2-AA, IEC, LR6 batteries (not included)
Battery Life: Over 12 months

TX14 Transmitter:
Dimensions: 2.5" L x 3.98" H x 1.42” W (64 x 101 x 36mm)
Power: 2-AA, IEC, LR6 batteries (not included)
Battery Life: Over 24 months (using reputable battery brands)

Features

• Wireless outdoor temperature (°F or °C) with trend arrow
• Monitors indoor temperature (°F or °C) with trend arrow
• Atomic time and date with manual setting
• Automatic Daylight Saving Time updates (on/off option)
• Time display (hour / minute)
• Perpetual calendar (month / date / weekday)
• Seven Time Zones: Atlantic (AST), Eastern (EST), Central (CST), Mountain (MST), Pacific (PST), Alaskan (AKT), Hawaiian (HAT)
• Time alarm with snooze function
• Wall hanging or free-standing
• Low battery indicator for clock and sensor

Initial Setup

1. Insert 2 AA batteries (not included) into the Digital Atomic Clock. The clock will then display the time and indoor temperature.
2. Insert 2 fresh AA batteries into the transmitter, observing the correct polarity markings inside the battery compartment. Do not mix old and new batteries, or different battery types (Alkaline, Standard, Lithium, Rechargeable).
3. Position the transmitter 5-10 feet away from the Digital Atomic Clock for 15 minutes to establish a good connection.
4. The outdoor temperature should display on the Digital Atomic Clock within 3 minutes. If not, remove batteries from both the transmitter and clock for 60 seconds and restart from step 1.
5. For optimal 433 MHz transmission, place the outdoor transmitter within 200 feet (60 meters) of open air from the Digital Atomic Clock.

Note: The Digital Atomic Clock will automatically search for the WWVB time signal for 2-10 minutes upon startup.

WWVB Radio Controlled Time

The NIST radio station, WWVB, located in Ft. Collins, Colorado, transmits an exact time signal continuously throughout the United States at 60 kHz. The signal can be received up to 2,000 miles away via the clock's internal antenna. Due to the Earth's ionosphere, reception is limited during daylight hours; the clock searches for the signal nightly when reception is best. The WWVB station derives its signal from the NIST Atomic Clock in Boulder, Colorado.

WWVB Reception Icon

A solid [signal-tower] icon indicates successful reception of the atomic time signal. If no tower icon is displayed, the clock was unable to receive a signal. Reposition the clock for better reception or try again at bedtime. The clock searches at specific UTC times (07:00, 08:00, 09:00, 10:00, 11:00), with each attempt lasting 2 to 10 minutes. If signal is weak or interference is high, the receiver operates for only 2 minutes. Good signals may be received in 2-3 minutes; marginal signals may take up to 10 minutes.

Manual Search: Hold the -/TIME button to initiate a manual signal search.

Note: If the WWVB signal is not detected due to disturbances or distance, the time can be manually set using the Program Menu.

Button Functions & Program Menu

Button Functions

The clock features several buttons for operation:

• °F/°C: Moves through program menu (setup); Selects temperature in °F/°C; Enters program menu, sets time, date, etc. (hold 2 seconds).
• +: Steps forward (setup); Fast advances values (hold 2 seconds).
• -: Steps backward (setup); Fast backward values (hold 2 seconds); Initiates WWVB Search (hold 2 seconds).
• SNOOZE: Triggers snooze alarm (ringing); Snooze alarm for 10 minutes (when alarm sounds).
• ALARM: Views alarm time (once); Activates or deactivates alarm (twice); Sets alarm time (hold 2 seconds).

Program Menu

Use the °F/°C button to navigate the program menu, and the + or - buttons to change values:

• WWVB reception ON or OFF
• Time Zone (Seven Time Zones)
• Daylight Saving Indicator
• 12/24 hour time format
• Manual time set (Hour, Minutes)
• Calendar set (Year, Month, Date)

Settings Configuration

WWVB Reception

WWVB reception is enabled by default (ON). To turn it OFF: Hold the °F/°C button for 5 seconds. "WWVB" and "ON" will flash. Press +/- to select OFF, then confirm with °F/°C to move to Time Zone setup.

Time Zone

Select one of the seven available time zones: Atlantic (AST), Eastern (EST), Central (CST), Mountain (MST), Pacific (PST), Alaskan (AKT), Hawaiian (HAT). The default is EST. Press +/- to cycle through zones and °F/°C to confirm.

Daylight Saving Indicator

The DST indicator defaults to ON. If your area does not observe DST, switch it to OFF by pressing +/- when "DST" and "ON" flash. Confirm with °F/°C to proceed to the 12/24 hour time format.

12/24 Hour Time Format

The clock defaults to 12-hour format (AM/PM displayed). To select 24-hour format, press +/- when "12H" flashes. Confirm with °F/°C to move to Set Time.

Set Time

Manually set the time: The hour digit will flash. Use +/- to select the hour. Press °F/°C to set minutes. The minute digit will flash. Use +/- to select the minutes. Confirm with °F/°C to move to Set Calendar.

Set Calendar

Manually set the date: The year (default 2010) will flash. Use +/- to set the year (2010-2039). Press °F/°C to confirm and enter month setting. The month will flash. Use +/- to set the month. Press °F/°C to confirm and enter date setting. The date will flash. Use +/- to set the date. Confirm all calendar settings with °F/°C to exit the program menu. The day of the week will set automatically.

Fahrenheit/Celsius

Switch between Fahrenheit (°F) and Celsius (°C) by pressing the °F/°C button once.

Alarm Set

Alarm Hour: Hold the ALARM button. The Alarm Hour will flash. Use +/- to set the hour. Press ALARM to confirm and move to minutes.
Alarm Minute: The Alarm Minutes will flash. Use +/- to set the minutes. Press ALARM to exit.

Note: When the alarm sounds, the [alarm-icon] will flash.

Icons and Indicators

Alarm Activation

Press ALARM once to display the alarm time. Press again to activate or deactivate the alarm. The [alarm-icon] appears when the alarm is active.

Snooze

When the alarm sounds, press SNOOZE for a 10-minute snooze. The [snooze-icon] and [alarm-icon] will flash. Press ALARM while in snooze mode to stop the alarm for the day; the [alarm-icon] will remain solid.

Temperature Trend Icons

These indicators, shown behind the temperature readings, reflect changes over the past three hours:

• Temperature rose more than 2°F (1°C): [temperature-rose]
• Temperature did not change more than 2°F (1°C): [temperature-stable]
• Temperature fell more than 2°F (1°C): [temperature-fell]

Low Battery

A [low-battery] icon in the indoor (IN) section indicates the clock's batteries need replacement. A [low-battery] icon in the outdoor (OUT) section indicates the transmitter's batteries need replacement.

Outdoor Transmitter Reception Icon

A solid icon signifies successful reception from the outdoor transmitter. A flashing icon indicates the transmitter signal is being searched for. If no icon appears, reception is unsuccessful. Hold the +/TEMP button to search for the transmitter.

Installation & Positioning

Install Batteries in the Digital Atomic Clock

1. Slide the battery cover tab down and pull to remove.
2. Install two fresh AA batteries according to polarity markings.

If indoor temperature is not shown after 60 seconds, remove batteries for at least 60 seconds and repeat setup.

Install Batteries in the Outdoor Transmitter

1. Slide the battery cover down, then lift off the back. Be careful not to break the tabs.
2. Insert two fresh AA batteries, observing polarity markings.
3. Keep the transmitter 5-10 ft from the clock during setup.
4. After 15 minutes, if outdoor temperature is displayed, move the transmitter to a shaded location within the clock's range.

Positioning the Atomic Clock

Mount the clock near an exterior wall facing Ft. Collins, Colorado, for optimal WWVB reception. Position it at least six feet away from other electronics or wireless devices. Options include:

• Foldout Table Stand: Pull the stand out from the bottom center edge of the clock's back.
• Wall Mount: Use a straightedge to mark three screw positions matching the clock's hanging holes. Install screws (not included) leaving ~3/16 inch (5mm) extended. Place the clock onto the screws using the hanging holes and gently pull down to lock. Ensure the clock is securely locked before releasing.

Positioning the Wireless Outdoor Transmitter

After the clock displays outdoor temperature, place both units in their desired locations. Wait approximately 1 hour before permanently mounting the transmitter to ensure proper reception. Mount the transmitter vertically in a shaded, protected area, at least 6 feet from the ground. The transmitter is water-resistant but not waterproof; avoid submerging it or placing it in standing water or snow.

Transmitter Wall Mount

Choose a shaded location (under an overhang) within the confirmed wireless reception range. Install one mounting screw (not included), leaving approximately ½ inch (12.7mm) extended. Place the transmitter's hanging hole onto the screw and slide down to secure.

IMPORTANT: For accurate readings, mount the transmitter out of direct sunlight on a North-facing wall or other shaded area (e.g., under an eave). The maximum transmitting range in open air is over 200 feet (60 meters). Obstacles like walls, windows, stucco, concrete, and large metal objects can reduce range. Mount the transmitter at least 6 feet high to improve signal transmission.

Care and Maintenance

• Do not mix old and new batteries.
• Do not mix battery types (Alkaline, Standard, Lithium, Rechargeable).
• Avoid exposing the clock to extreme temperatures, vibration, or shock.
• Keep the clock dry.
• Clean with a soft damp cloth; do not use solvents or scouring agents.
• This is not a toy; keep out of reach of children.
• The clock is intended for home use only and not for medical or public information purposes.
• Specifications are subject to change without notice.
• Improper use or unauthorized opening voids the warranty.
• If the clock malfunctions, replace the batteries.

Specifications

Indoor Temperature

• Range: +32°F to +122°F (0°C to 50°C)
• Interval: Approximately every 30 seconds

Outdoor Temperature

• Range: -40°F to 140°F (-40°C to 60°C)
• Alkaline Batteries: -20°F to 140°F (-28.8°C to 60°C)
• Lithium Batteries: -40°F to 140°F (-40°C to 60°C)
• Note: Lithium batteries are required for outdoor sensor temperatures below -20°F (-28.8°C).

Transmission

• Distance: Over 200 ft. (60 meters) RF 433MHz (open air)
• Interval: Approximately every 30 seconds

Accuracy

Indoor Temperature Accuracy

• Measurement Range: 32°F to 140°F (0°C to 50°C)
• Accuracy: ±1°F at room temperature (68°F to 75°F / 20°C to 24°C)
• Accuracy: ±2°F from 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C)
• Resolution: 0.1°F or 0.1°C
• Performance: Continues to display correct temperature above 122°F (50°C) or below 32°F (0°C) as long as the LCD functions.
• Temperature Cycle: 30 seconds

Outdoor Temperature Accuracy

• Measurement Range: -40°F to 158°F (0°C to 70°C)
• Accuracy: ±1°F at room temperature (68°F-to-75°F / 20°C-to-24°C)
• Accuracy: ±2°F from 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C)
• Accuracy: ±4°F otherwise
• Resolution: 0.1°F

Warranty Information

La Crosse Technology, Ltd provides a 1-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty begins on the original purchase date and is valid only for products purchased and used in North America by the original purchaser. To receive warranty service, contact La Crosse Technology, Ltd for problem determination and service procedures. Warranty service must be performed by an authorized La Crosse Technology, Ltd service center. The original dated bill of sale is required as proof of purchase.

La Crosse Technology, Ltd will repair or replace defective products at its option, free of charge, using new or reconditioned parts. All replaced parts and products become the property of La Crosse Technology, Ltd. Replacement parts/products carry the remainder of the original warranty or 90 days, whichever is longer. La Crosse Technology, Ltd covers all labor and material expenses for warranty repairs. If repairs are not covered or the product is found to not need repair, charges will apply. The owner is responsible for shipping costs to an authorized service center.

The warranty covers defects in material and workmanship, with the following exceptions:

• Damage from accident, unreasonable use, neglect, or lack of maintenance.
• Damage occurring during shipment (claims must be presented to the carrier).
• Damage to or deterioration of accessories or decorative surfaces.
• Damage from failure to follow instructions in the owner's manual.
• Damage from repairs or alterations by unauthorized personnel.
• Units used for non-home use or unintended applications.
• Inability to receive a signal due to interference.

This warranty covers actual product defects only and not installation/removal costs, normal set-up/adjustments, claims based on seller misrepresentation, or performance variations due to installation circumstances.

LA CROSSE TECHNOLOGY, LTD IS NOT LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, OR OTHER SIMILAR DAMAGES ASSOCIATED WITH THE OPERATION OR MALFUNCTION OF THIS PRODUCT. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT FOR MEDICAL OR PUBLIC INFORMATION USE. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT A TOY. KEEP OUT OF CHILDREN'S REACH.

This warranty grants specific legal rights, and you may have other rights depending on your state.

Contact & Legal Information

Contact Information

For warranty work, technical support, or information, contact:

La Crosse Technology, Ltd
2817 Losey Blvd. S.
La Crosse, WI 54601

The complete instruction manual is available at: www.lacrossetechnology.com/513-149

Contact Support: 1-608-782-1610

Product Registration: www.lacrossetechnology.com/support/register

Patents

Protected under U.S. Patents: 5,978,738, 6,076,044, 6,597,990

FCC Disclaimer

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) the device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

NOTE: THE MANUFACTURER IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY RADIO OR TV INTERFERENCE CAUSED BY UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATIONS TO THIS EQUIPMENT. SUCH MODIFICATIONS COULD VOID THE USER AUTHORITY TO OPERATE THE EQUIPMENT.

All rights reserved. This handbook must not be reproduced in any form, even in excerpts, or duplicated or processed using electronic, mechanical or chemical procedures without written permission of the publisher. This handbook may contain mistakes and printing errors. The information is regularly checked and corrections made in the next issue. No liability is accepted for technical mistakes or printing errors, or their consequences. All trademarks and patents are acknowledged.